Suntory to Buy Beam

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Japanese drinks company Suntory intends to acquire Beam for $13.6 billion for Beam. In addition to its namesake bourbon, Beam includes Maker’s Mark, Laphroaig Scotch whisky and Courvoisier.

Suntory’s beverage empire includes Yamazaki Japanese whisky, Bowmore Scotch and Midori liqueur. The brand is becoming more popular in the U.S., though it’s probably best known for the 2003 movie ‘Lost in Translation,’ in which Bill Murray’s character shoots a Suntory commercial.

Why Beam? Suntory has been expanding aggressively overseas Suntory has been expanding aggressively overseas to counteract a shrinking market in Japan, according to a New York Times article. Beam is its biggest deal ever. The transaction is expected to close by June 30, pending approval by Beam’s shareholders. Read the full article here.